The song shares the history of Ghost Ridge in Montana, where hundreds of Blackfeet people were buried after they were denied food and medicine during the Starvation Winter of 1883-1884. Cobell grew up hearing about the tragedy and it inspired her to take on the federal government with her lawsuit.

"On Ghost Ridge" is one of 91 compositions in the running for Original Song and if it lands among the top five choices, it will be officially nominated for the category. Nominations are being announced on January 24, 2017.

Cobell, who passed away in October 2011, settled the case for $3.4 billion. She was posthumously awarded Presidential
Medal of Freedom last month.

"Through sheer force of will and a belief that the truth will win out, Elouise Cobell overcame the longest odds, reminding us that fighting for what is right is always worth it," President
Barack Obama said during the November 22 ceremony.